Spices have been used to heal the body for thousands of years, yet scientific research into their health benefits is still in its infancy. We look at the evidence for five common spices.

Turmeric

his bright orange spice comes from the ginger plant family and adds colour to many dishes.

In traditional Indian medicine it is used for a wide variety of conditions, including those of the skin, heart, lungs and digestive system.

Curcumin is the active ingredient and gives turmeric its vibrant colour.

Although our bodies can’t absorb much curcumin, small-scale studies suggest it has potent anti-inflammatory properties and so the potential to treat joint diseases such as arthritis and back pain.

Turmeric may be helpful in cutting cardiovascular disease and stroke risk. It’s thought turmeric can lower bad cholesterol and reduce the stickiness of blood, preventing blood clots.

A study of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found…